Shahzain seeks security from Punjab govt

LAHORE: Nawabzada Shahzain Bugti, head of the Jamhoori Watan Party and former federal minister, has formally requested security from the Punjab Home Department during his visit to the province.

In a letter to the department, Bugti expressed concerns about being targeted by hostile agencies and non-state actors due to his active opposition to elements seeking to destabilize Pakistan. Bugti’s letter highlighted his frequent visits to Punjab for political and personal matters, stressing the increased risk to his safety during these times. He cited his outspoken stance against separatists, advocacy for Kashmiri rights and criticism of Indian involvement in Pakistan as reasons for receiving threats from both domestic and international miscreants.

In response to Bugti’s request, Noorul Amin Mengal, home secretary of Punjab, has acknowledged the receipt of the letter and forwarded it to the additional secretary of Internal Security for threat assessment. Deputy Secretary of Internal Security Maham Asif Malik confirmed that Bugti’s case would be reviewed by the Punjab Provincial Intelligence Committee. The committee will assess the level of threat and make a decision regarding the provision of security. Malik added that the security status was reviewed every three months and could be extended if deemed necessary. The outcome of the threat assessment would determine necessary security measures to ensure Bugti’s safety during his time in Punjab.